Roma legend Falcão believes Totti has deserved Ballon d'Or

Former Brazil international and Roma legend Paulo Roberto Falcão believes that Francesco Totti ought to have won a Ballon d'Or during his career.

The Giallorossi attacker has been linked with a return to the Italy squad lately due to his fine form ahead of the 20th anniversary of his Serie A debut.

Falcão, who was immensely popular during his five-year stint at the capital club, has lavished further praise on the veteran attacker.

He told Tele Radio Stereo: "Totti has the technique of a South American. He has deserved to win more Serie A titles with Roma, and a European Cup or the Ballon d'Or.

"He's an extraordinary player. When he started we did not even know how good he could be. In Italy, it is difficult for a guy who steps straight from the youth division into the first team, unlike what happens in Brazil.

"Totti did it and he was amazing. He has a quick brain, he thinks on his feet and would have done great things in my Roma side which won the league 1982-83."

The 59-year-old, who currently manages Brazilian outfit Bahia, also discussed what he considers the best position for Totti in his later years, and praised the Giallorossi star's match-winning strike against Juventus in February.

The Brazilian added: "He can play as second striker or attacking midfielder, but where is best is in front of midfield, just behind the forwards.

"Totti sees things that only the best players can see. He is among the greatest, but do not ask me to do compare [him with] others.

"I'm not surprised by his longevity as he is a quality player, not solely because of his fitness, but due to his class and character that help him succeed when he is not fully fit.

"His goal against Juventus was impressive as he showed his strength, speed and simplicity."